Restaurateur ordered to pay more than £3,000 over rodent infestation

A restaurateur has been ordered to pay more than £3,000 after health officers discovered a rodent infestation at his restaurant in Wales.

Rysul Asad, the former proprietor of Gulshan in Chancery Lane, Cardigan, pleaded guilty to 10 offences, four of which related to the infestation, a further five to poor standards of cleaning and a 10th regarding his failure to register a new business, which trades as Shampan the Boat Restaurant and Takeaway, also in Cardigan.

Ceredigion County Council environmental health officers closed down the restaurant with immediate effect in September 2017 following the discovery of an "active rodent infestation". Council officials reported finding droppings, entry points and evidence of gnawing within food preparation and storage areas.

As well as this, officers reported finding dirty equipment and very poor standards of cleaning.

Magistrates imposed a total financial penalty of £3,107, including costs and a victim surcharge.

Ceredigion County Council's cabinet member for public protection services councillor Gareth Lloyd said: "Food hygiene inspections, and food hygiene ratings shown on the doors of the majority of food businesses in Ceredigion, gives reassurance to the public who live, work and visit the county that the food they eat is safe and has been prepared hygienically. However, on rare occasions the council must take action to protect public health and the reputation of our excellent hospitality industry who work hard to maintain standards."

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